Jethro Tull was initially a strange kind of blues band. Their first line-up included Mick Abrahams, Glenn Cornick, Clive Bunker, and Ian Anderson. This Was, the group’s early rough and ready debut from 1968, is a world away from what they eventually became, but still boasts superb performances with hints of the hard rock, folk and jazz elements that Anderson would develop further on later works such as Benefit and Aqualung. 

 

The album was recorded without any record company contract presuming, correctly, that a deal could be made afterwards. This Was hit #10 on the British charts, partly thanks to great airplay from BBC Radio DJ John Peel. Just before the release in the U.S., guitarist Abrahams left to form Blodwyn Pig, primarily due to Anderson’s preference for a less blues-orientated future. Reissued on 180 gram vinyl, with original gatefold sleeve and audio cut from 2008 stereo mix. 

1. My Sunday Feeling
2. Some Day The Sun Won’t Shine
3. Beggars Farm
4. Move On Alone
5. Serenade To A Cuckoo
6. Dharma For One
7. It’s Breaking Me Up
8. Cat’s Squirrel
9. A Song For Jeffrey
10. Round